This beginning kayaking class teaches flat and moving-water kayaking basics while increasing fitness. Students progress from on-land demonstrations and practice to flat-water navigation. Kayaks are recreational/touring types. Helmets and PFDs are provided and required. This adapted class offers additional staff supervision and support with one staff member for every three students.

(13-Adult) Enjoy a naturalist-led birding trip by kayak. Park Authority lakes are home to more than 100 species of birds and hold many unique habitats. See how these small vessels can provide a closer look into the world of birds. Travel in a one-person kayak.

(12-15 yrs.) Fish from the shore and on kayaks as you hone your fishing skills with our experienced instructors. Throughout the week, campers will use a variety of fishing techniques in preparation for a float trip by kayak for smallmouth bass along the Potomac River. This camp will also include off-site trips to local lakes and ponds around Fairfax County. Bring snack, lunch and water bottle. Once registered, download camp forms from website.

(12-Adult) This introductory-level class is perfect for beginners or for those who want to learn how to paddle more efficiently. Learn about different kayaks, paddles, personal flotation devices and safety gear. On the water learn to move the boat in every direction using different strokes and maneuvers. All kayaks, paddles and necessary safety equipment is included.

(14-Adult) Get prepped for paddling on our stretch of the Potomac. This introductory level course covers river features and hazards, water safety and paddling basics within the ACA curriculum. Canceled if inclement weather or hazardous river conditions. Single kayaks and PFDs are provided.

(14-Adult) Experience the Potomac River in a new light as we paddle under the moon. Discover the peace and wildlife of the evening river as a guide leads you on a tour through the calmest section of the river during each full moon this summer. No paddling experience necessary. Canceled if inclement weather or hazardous river conditions. Single & tandem kayaks and PFDs are provided. Each individual must register.

(14-Adult) Watch for deer foraging on the islands, and osprey and bald eagles searching for fish as we paddle through this wildlife-rich section of the Potomac River. This is not a whitewater tour. No previous experience required. Kayaks provided, one person per kayak. Download waiver and bring completed to tour: https://go.usa.gov/xnJUB. Canceled in case of inclement weather or hazardous river conditions.

(14-Adult) Experience day's end with an upper Potomac River tour. Start with the basics and in a short time maneuver through the water. This is not a whitewater tour. No previous experience required. Kayaks provided, one and two person kayaks available. Download waiver from https://go.usa.gov/xnJUB and bring to tour. Tour canceled in case of inclement weather or hazardous river conditions.

(7-10 yrs.) Campers enjoy guided nature hikes, crafts, fishing and boat rides (boats vary depending on availability and may include kayak, rowboat, tour boat). Shaded trails and lakefronts are perfect settings for exploring creatures and plants that live in our streams, lakes and forests. Burke Lake meets at shelter C. Camps run rain or shine. Contact the park for details on extreme weather days. No camp June 19 and July 4. Once registered, download camp forms from website.

(12-Adult) Paddle with a naturalist to learn about the flora and fauna that call the lake their home. Find out what’s growing along the lake’s edge, who likes to wade in the water and what might be swimming underneath you. Single kayaks and all equipment provided.

(10-14 yrs.) Step into the wild with Baroody Outside, where kids with a passion for the outdoors will explore nature's wonders throughout an exciting week. Each day presents new opportunities, from kayaking to white water rafting to hiking adventures and learning outdoor living skills. No camp June 19 and July 4. Once registered, download camp forms from website.

(9-13 yrs.) Develop new skills to explore the outdoors. Be prepared for many different outdoor activities including kayaking (when available), fishing, fire building, orienteering, geocaching, and learning how to safely explore nature. Bring lunch, snack and water bottle daily. No camp June 19 and July 4. Once registered, download camp forms from website.

(8-12 yrs.) Fish & Explore takes campers off-site to learn kayaking skills while getting up close to native wildlife along waterways, ponds and lakes. Beach stops allow campers to wade and observe, catch, photograph and release frogs, toads, tadpoles, salamanders, lizards, turtles and other small critters. Life jackets are provided and required while kayaking. Bring lunch, snack, water bottle, change of clothes, sneakers or river shoes and towel. A signed waiver form is required. Once registered, download camp forms from website.

Our single passenger kayaks are the perfect way to enjoy exploring the waterfront parks. We offer sit on top kayaks that are user friendly and do not require some of the technical expertise that traditional sit-inside kayaks do. Each rental includes a boat, a paddle, and a PFD. So grab some snacks, drinks, and sunscreen and then head out to explore our riparian environments! Boat rentals can only be made by individuals 18 years and older. All single kayak users must be 16 years and older. Life jackets are mandatory and must be worn at all times.